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Summer 2025

Summer Adventures in the Nature

Encounter the wild heart of Lapland under summer skies

Wildlife and Nature Adventures in Ruka, at the Door to Lapland

Explore Nature and Wildlife in the Summer Light of Ruka

Ruka’s wild summer landscapes invite you to step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the calm, energy, and beauty of northern Finland. Located in Kuusamo, a gateway to Lapland’s wilderness, Ruka is surrounded by ancient forests, rolling fells, and endless skies. These summer adventures connect you with the rhythms of the North. From quiet wildlife encounters to hikes under the midnight sun, every experience nourishes both body and soul.


Wildlife Encounters and Quiet Observation

One of the most unforgettable summer activities in Ruka is joining a bear watching tour. With expert guides, you’ll travel to a remote observation hut and wait silently as the forest reveals its most majestic resident. The slow rhythm of this experience creates a rare sense of presence—and if the bear appears, it’s a memory for life.

For sky lovers, our evening Northern Lights tours in autumn or guided hikes in search of auroras let you witness the magic of the northern sky. And during the summer months, the midnight sun hike to Valtavaara takes you through glowing fells bathed in golden twilight.


Active Days in Forest and Fell

Nature in Ruka is not only for watching—it’s for moving through. On our Into the Forest with Fatbikes tour, you’ll ride along scenic forest trails in an eco-friendly and fun way. Fatbikes are easy to handle, perfect for both beginners and active explorers.

For a slower pace, choose one of our guided hikes focused on forest energy and well-being. As you walk through the trees, your guide helps you tune into the sounds, scents, and natural wonders of the woods. These hikes remind you how nature restores strength and calms the mind.


Why Choose Ruka’s Summer Nature Adventures?

Ruka, just a short step from Lapland’s northern wilderness, offers unique experiences for every traveler. Whether you seek peaceful observation or active exploration, all tours are guided, beginner-friendly, and include safety equipment when needed. You’ll return with a clearer mind, a deeper breath, and a stronger connection with the wild beauty of Finland’s Arctic nature.

Explore Finland’s National Parks with Respect

Many of our adventures take place in the stunning protected areas around Ruka, including Oulanka National Park, the Valtavaara–Pyhävaara Nature Reserve, and Riisitunturi National Park. These landscapes are part of Finland’s 41 national parks, created to protect nature and share its beauty with visitors.

Our guides will not only lead you safely through these Arctic environments, but also share how to enjoy them responsibly. By following their advice, you’ll connect more deeply with Lapland’s wild nature while helping preserve it for the future.

Information about our programs

When and where to book
We recommend booking your program well in advance. For the open Weekly Programs intended for holidaymakers, registration is required by 3:00 PM the day before, either by phone, email or through our online store. Please note that places are limited for each activity. For private departures, we will provide a custom quote for your group. The price depends on the group size and the content of the program. Request a quote by phone or email – we are happy to tailor an offer according to your wishes.
Where do we start?
Our guides will meet you at the Safari House in Ruka (address: Onkerniementie 12), at Iisakki Village in Rukajärvi, or at another agreed location. After getting equipped, transportation takes place either in your own vehicle or with Ruka Safaris’ transport.
Equipment
We will provide all necessary equipment for the activity. In winter, this typically includes a snowmobile overall, boots, gloves, and a hat or helmet. In summer, for example, rafting gear includes rainwear, rubber boots, life jackets and helmets. We recommend wearing your own sporty clothing under the gear. For hiking programs, sturdy shoes are highly recommended. We are happy to provide additional advice on what to wear.
Driving motor vehicles
Driving a snowmobile under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. All vehicles are road-legal and require at least a T-class driver’s license. Our routes include public roads and official snowmobile trails.
Children and pregnant participants
Each program description includes the minimum age requirement. For example, in snowmobile programs, the minimum age for children is 5 or 8 years, depending on the activity. Passengers on snowmobiles must be at least 140 cm tall to ensure their feet can safely reach the footrests. The family rafting adventure requires a minimum age of 5 years, while the adventure on larger rapids requires participants to be 18 or older. The minimum age for SUP boarding is 12 years. Pregnant participants are not advised to join rapid floating or husky sled rides. They cannot participate in snowmobile or whitewater rafting programs due to vibration and exhaust emissions, which may pose risks to the unborn baby.
Meals
Meal inclusions are specified in each program description. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions no later than the day before your program.
Insurance
Ruka Experiences Oy / Ruka Safaris holds liability insurance covering you and your group in case of accidents. This covers damages caused by possible negligence on our part. However, we recommend that you also take out personal travel insurance for the duration of your trip. All snowmobiles are fully insured. In case of damage, the deductible is €1000 per vehicle. This must be paid in full immediately after the program. The deductible is personal and only applies to one program or safari.
Payment methods
We accept cash, debit and credit cards (Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Maestro, and Amex). Please note: we charge for the number of participants confirmed in advance. If the group is larger than reported, we will charge according to the actual number of participants.
Cancellations
Please check the cancellation policy in the product description for each weekly program. Group programs have separate terms and conditions, which will be provided when you request a quote.